We had the good fortune of connecting with Cory Simmons and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cory, what inspires you?
I’m inspired by the ones who’ve taken the path less followed. By the courage it takes for someone to shoot for they’re dreams, or goals that seem so distant and at times unfathomable or unreachable. What inspires me most are the creatives, the artists, poets, risk takers, the raw, the voiced, the authentic and genuine. Inspired by the strength it takes for some to keep moving forward despite personal mental, physical health issues, the ones that move beyond societal norms, breaking through the societal molds of what’s acceptable and not.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career is very music related. I believe that music is such a great way to connect with those around us, through all genres and all walks. My goal has been to create space for artists of all kinds to share, connect and express. So what I try to offer with both my personal musical artistry, and my company (Astral Productions) Is perspective and space, connection through inner exploration, and outward action. I believe the best way for us to thrive and grow is by doing it, not just personally but with community. Musically what I can offer is my perspective, my story and my heART, with the gift of song, voice and guitar.

It hasn’t been easy, but I’m grateful for the support and love the ones around me have constantly given me, if it wasn’t for them reminding me of who I am, what I’m capable of and where I’m heading, I may have given up a long time ago. It took a lot of getting myself out of those thought processes of doubt, and feeling unworthy, jumping out of past behaviors and into healthier more present thought patterns. A Lot of self discovery, and will to see these seeds bloom. And I give so much THANKS for the community surrounding me for helping me see in new lights and lenses.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If some friends came by, I’d probably take them to Duncan’s Ridge in Fort Collins, for a beautiful view or sunrise/sunset, or around Horsetooth Reservoir for some awesome hiking trails. Hanging Lake would be another spot along side the Poudre for some floating fun. For some local eats I’d take them to downtown Fort Collins for some great street tacos at “Vatos Tacos and Tequila”, Los Tarascos, Blind Pig, Rainbow Cafe, Lucille’s among many.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shout out to my daughter Autumn. She’s encouraged me to keep moving forward, keep pushing, and to not give up, whether she knows it or not. She’s helped me overcome quite the hardships, the trials and tribulations, refreshed and recharged everytime I see her, and knowing she exists in my life has really been the push to keep going and thrive for her and for us.

Website: https://www.corysimmusic.com/

Instagram: @Corysimmonsmusic

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/1823260871275571/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCdsxW6UnhbLTi30S2s_1nZA

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1o6sFlrR0IEPzE1LluPGyr?si=SHs6ropwRTO_QOn5ikEzww&utm_source=copy-link

Image Credits
Photo by Grayson Reed And Greyson Christian Plate

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